A bench carpenter operates woodworking technology to cut, shape, or surface lumbar and assemble parts for wood products. As a bench carpenter, your job duties may include drawing up detailed customer specifications, reviewing blueprints and work orders to determine operational methods, and programming computers to operate machinery. You may also repair or alter wooden furniture, such as cabinets or paneling. The career typically requires a high school diploma or GED certificate and experience through on-the-job training or an apprenticeship program. Additional qualifications include strong mechanical skills and precision, attention to detail, and experience with woodworking machines such as power saws and jointers.